Help Me Decide! UPPAbaby Vista V2 or Mockingbird Single-to-Double 2.0

Updated on
April 1, 2024

Help Me Decide! UPPAbaby Vista V2 or Mockingbird Single-to-Double 2.0

Two very similar strollers, two very different prices. How do they stack up and which one’s right for you.

By Jen LaBracio, CPST

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Help Me Decide! UPPAbaby Vista V2 or Mockingbird Single-to-Double 2.0.

Ever find yourself stuck between two products and you just can’t make up your mind? Baby registry decision fatigue is real—so Babylist’s Help Me Decide! series is here to help.

If you’re in the market for a convertible stroller—a stroller that converts from a single to a double—you’ve likely come across two of the most popular options: UPPAbaby’s Vista V2 and Mockingbird’s Single-to-Double 2.0.

Although they look really similar, there are also some big differences between the two. (The price tag, for starters!) But are these differences really all that big of a deal? How do the strollers’ features stack up? And which one is right for your family?

Let’s find out.

THE SHOWDOWN: Mockingbird vs UPPababy

UPPAbaby Vista V2 Stroller

One of the first convertible stroller systems to hit the US market in the early 2000s, the UPPAbaby Vista changed the game for strolling parents with more than one kiddo in tow. Now, instead of having to buy a whole new stroller when a second baby came along, parents could morph the stroller they already owned from a single to a double with a few small tweaks (no tools needed) and the addition of a second seat. The brand’s latest V2 edition still boasts the same functionality along with lots of high-end features like an included bassinet, a huge canopy and storage basket, all-wheel suspension and so much more.

Mockingbird Single-to-Double Stroller 2.0

Mockingbird kicked off as a direct-to-consumer brand in 2019 with a single stroller and launched their highly anticipated convertible single-to-double model shortly after. Both models then received pretty exciting updates in early 2024 including improved suspension, an extended canopy and hinged latch for an easer fold and unfold. Similar to the Vista in lots of ways (other than price), the Mockingbird expands to hold two kids with 18+ different configurations and plenty of luxe features. It’s available in tons of different fun fabrics and has garnered rave reviews from parents since its debut.

UPPAbaby vs Mockingbird Stroller Comparison Chart

THE LOWDOWN

What’s the same?

Design and functionality. A quick glance at both the Vista V2 and the Mockingbird would lead you to believe that these two strollers have a lot in common—and you’d be right. The basic look, design, and functionality of these strollers are really similar. While there are some differences that we’ll review below, both feature things like higher-end fabrics, extendable canopies with peekaboo windows, adjustable handlebars, large storage baskets, better-than-average suspension systems and reclining seats. Both strollers are roughly the same size and weight. Both accept bassinets and infant car seats and expand to hold more than one child. And both come in a wide selection of colorways so you’ll have plenty of fun options.
Maneuverability. Even with such a steep price difference between them, we think the maneuverability of the V2 and the Mockingbird 2.0 is pretty neck-in-neck. As single strollers, both are easy to push, turn and steer thanks to the large wheels. As doubles, they’re a bit more unwieldy—but that’s the case with almost all inline strollers when loaded up with two kids, so we didn’t notice any big differences there. There is a difference in each stroller’s specific suspension system which does affect the ride a bit (more on that below), but we don’t think it’s significant enough to affect the overall maneuverability, especially if you’re just out for an everyday walk.
Modular seating. This is by far one of our favorite features about both of these popular strollers. With a light press of two side buttons and a quick lift, both the primary seat and the second seat on the V2 and the Mockingbird pop out and can face in either direction. Whether you’re in single or double mode, it’s easy to either parent-face or forward-face your children or do a combo of both. You’re also able to click in a bassinet and an infant car seat and configure everything in lots of different ways.
Standing fold. Although the Vista V2 and the Mockingbird Single-to-Double 2.0 fold in different ways (again, more on that below), both stand when folded in single and double mode. This is a huge win when you’re trying to wrangle folding your stroller and managing your kid (or kids) all at the same time. It’s also a plus for easier stroller storage or if you’re regularly folding and unfolding your stroller on the go.
Third-rider capability. You’ll be able to add a third child (or older child who has outgrown the stroller seat) to either stroller setup with the addition of a stroller board, which UPPAbaby calls a Piggyback board and Mockingbird calls a Riding Board. The extra attachment clicks right onto the back of the stroller and creates a comfy spot for your older child to stand while younger children are riding in stroller seats. But keep in mind that there are two major differences between the brands’ stroller boards: the Vista’s Piggyback board has your child standing in the middle of the handlebar area whereas the Mockingbird Riding Board keeps kiddo slightly off to the side, and Mockingbird’s board has both a standing and sitting option thanks to the removeable saddle-style seat (the Piggyback board only gives riders the option to stand up).

What’s different?

Price. By far the biggest and most obvious difference between these two strollers is the price—and that’s exactly the point. Mockingbird came onto the stroller scene knowing how popular the Vista is while also realizing that the steep price point is a deterrent for lots of families. As a direct-to-consumer brand, they’re able to skip retail stores and their markups to create a comparable stroller at a fraction of the price. While the Vista will cost you almost a thousand dollars, the Mockingbird comes in at about $400, a pretty big difference. It is worth noting that although the Vista will take a bigger bite out of your budget, it does come with more accessories than the Mockingbird right out of the box. Things like a rain shield and a bug shield, for example, and a bassinet, are both included with the V2, whereas you’ll have to purchase those separately if you decide on the Mockingbird. (The Mockingbird’s Bassinet retails for $140, definitely one of the more expensive add-ons they offer.) Yet even keeping all of this in mind the difference in price between the two is still significant.
Second seat weight capacity. The V2 and the Mockingbird each have different weight capacities when they’re being used with their second seats in double stroller mode. The main seat on the Vista holds a maximum of 50 pounds, while the second seat—what the brand calls a RumbleSeat—maxes out at 35. This differs from the Mockingbird where each seat holds 45 pounds. This mostly matters if you’re a parent of twins and will be using your stroller for two children of the same age from day one. It also matters if your kids are on the heavier side, as your younger child will outgrow the RumbleSeat on the V2 faster than they will the Mockingbird’s second seat. (It’s also worth noting that you’ll have to purchase the second seats separately for both the V2 and the Mockingbird; neither strollers come with them.)
Configuration options. Thanks to their design, modular seating and add-on options, both the V2 and the Mockingbird boast a ton of different configurations when you’re strolling with two (or even three, with a stroller board attached) children at once. However, there are some seating options that the V2 can do that the Mockingbird cannot. Here are the biggies:
- The Vista can hold a bassinet in the top spot and a forward-facing toddler in the lower spot. With the Mockingbird, the toddler needs to sit face-to-face with the bassinet if it’s in use.
- Both the V2 and the Mockingbird 2.0 can support two infant car seats at once. The Vista can also support two bassinets, though, while the Mockingbird can’t. (Another thing to consider if you’re a twin parent.)

It’s also worth a mention that both the V2 and the Mockingbird allow for the option to parent-face an infant car seat and forward-face the second seat. This was previously not the case for the Mockingbird, but was changed in June of 2021 when they updated their 2nd Seat Kit.

Fold. You’ll need two hands to fold the V2, while the Mockingbird boasts a one-handed fold. Why is this a big deal? As a parent, you’ll often only have one hand free to do just about anything—so it’s nice to have help wherever you can get it.
Suspension. One of the first things you’ll notice about the V2 is its amazing suspension system. The stroller can tackle uneven sidewalks, hop curbs and even do stairs without a hitch, and that’s all because of the independent, all-wheel suspension. The Mockingbird, however, only has suspension built into the front wheels. Its tires are also a bit smaller than what you’ll find on the V2. Is this a huge deal? Not really; the Mockingbird still has some pretty awesome suspension and can tackle rougher terrain fairly easily. But it is a difference that’s worth noting if you’re comparing the two head to head.
Car seat adaptability. If you plan on using your infant car seat with either the V2 or the Mockingbird, you’ll have a lot of options for some of the best infant car seat brands—but you’ll have a few more with the Mockingbird. While the Vista accepts six different brands of seats, the Mockingbird accepts nine. Keep in mind that you’ll need adapters for both strollers unless you’re using UPPAbaby’s car seat, the Mesa, with your Vista.
Bassinet and other accessories. If you purchase UPPAbaby’s Vista stroller, you’ll get a bassinet included right out of the box. That’s not the case with the Mockingbird, as mentioned above; it’s sold separately for about $140. (Note that both bassinets are approved for overnight sleep, though.) You’ll also get a few other accessories with the V2 that you’ll need to buy separately if you purchase the Mockingbird, like a rain shield and a bug net.
Warranty. This one is a pretty big difference. The warranty on the Vista V2 is three years, as long as you register your stroller with UPPAbaby. The brand is known for their stellar customer service and their quick replacements for any broken parts. Mockingbird’s warranty takes things one step further, boasting a lifetime warranty (with a few exclusions worth taking a look at on the brand’s website).
Finishes. At quick glance, the finishes on the V2 and the Mockingbird appear pretty similar—and generally speaking, they are. But there are some differences worth a second look.
- The handlebar on each stroller is probably the biggest difference on these two popular stroller brands. The Vista’s handlebar telescopes in and out; you can extend it if you’re on the taller side or retract it if you’re shorter. The Mockingbird’s handle, however, is fixed in place on either side and only moves up or down. This may not seem significant unless you’re on the taller side, in which case you’ll notice the difference immediately. Taller parents (think about 5’8” or so and up) may have trouble pushing the Mockingbird without kicking the bottom bar between the back wheels of the stroller. There’s just not enough clearance to make it work, and it can be really frustrating if you’re not paying attention to your feet.
- And speaking of handlebars, the V2’s is wrapped in real leather, while the Mockingbird’s uses a synthetic material.
- The Mockingbird has two cool fabric features that the Vista does not: a water-resistant canopy (perfect for those accidental parent drink spills while you’re on the go) and a footrest that completely unzips to easily release crumbs and whatever else your baby or toddler spilled that day. Super smart. The Mockingbird also has high-contrast black and white fabric on the interior of the stroller canopy to stimulate baby’s developing eyesight, another unique feature.

THE VERDICT

We’ve done a lot of head-to-head comparisons on popular baby gear items that parents are often torn between, and normally at this point like to recommend which product might be right for you depending on certain criteria. But in this case, we’re going to change things up a bit.

There are some clearly differing features and functionalities that you’ll want to pay attention to when you’re deciding between the V2 and the Mockingbird 2.0. But in general, the bulk of them aren’t so much game-changing “differences” as they are just…different. And most have work-arounds that are frankly pretty easy to implement.

If you’re a parent of twins, for instance, you may not love that the Mockingbird doesn’t accommodate two bassinets at once. But you’ll be able to get around that by using two car seats, so maybe it’s not that big of a deal?

And what about the difference between the second seat weight capacity on the V2 versus the Mockingbird? (The Vista’s RumbleSeat can only hold 35 pounds, while the Mockingbird’s second seat holds 45.) It could be an issue if you have a bigger kiddo—but there’s also the stroller board option to consider for both brands if your little one sizes out.

So how should you decide? After taking all of the above into consideration, we think the biggest, most-impossible-to-ignore differentiator comes down to price. Figuring out what you want to spend on a stroller will go a long way in helping you to decide which of these popular options deserves a spot on your registry or in your cart. And remember you can’t go wrong with either (we love both so much they’re included in our best strollers guide). Either stroller is a great choice for a growing family.

Shop These Strollers

UPPAbaby Vista V2 Stroller - Jake

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Mockingbird Single-to-Double Stroller 2.0 - Black/Watercolor Canopy With Penny Leather

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Mockingbird Infant Seat Stroller Insert

$43.00

Mockingbird Stroller Parent Organizer - Black

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Mockingbird Car Seat Adapter for Mockingbird Stroller - Graco/Chicco/Britax/Evenflo/Baby Jogger

$45.00

Jen LaBracio,

Senior Gear Editor, CPST

Jen LaBracio is Babylist’s Senior Gear Editor and a Child Passenger Safety Technician (CPST). When she’s not geeking out over car seats, testing out a new high chair or pushing the latest stroller model around her neighborhood, she likes to run, do all things Peloton, listen to podcasts, read and spend time at the beach. In her past life, she worked for over a decade in children’s publishing. She lives outside of Chicago with her husband and their two boys, Will and Ben.

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